Dealing with Katrina's Aftermath

When New Orleans evacuees needed help, mid-Missouri churches helped those who came to Columbia.

"Some churches have been generous in giving up to six months in rental assistance," said Kathryn Oberg, relief coordinator of mid-Missouri.

Some Columbia hotels let evacuees stay for free. And, local groups like the Salvation Army helped them move out of federally-paid-for hotel rooms more than a month ahead of the Feb. 7 deadline.

Now that those families have roofs over their heads, Oberg said they hope to make a home here to raise their kids. She said many evacuees are staying in Columbia, and there will be a job fair next week to help them find employment.

Lisa Hein is sponsoring a family and helped them adjust to life far from New Orleans.

"Some of the things they were a little aprehensive about was winter, winter driving, what kind of clothes they should wear," she explained. "They are not used to winter at all."